A History of Halloween at Emerson

Celebrating Halloween on campus is a tradition that started as early as 1932, when Sigma Delta Chi opened its social calendar with a Halloween Dance at its chapter house. It was a chance for members and their partners to dance the night away either in their best clothes or a costume of their choice. It was immensely popular and other Greek societies, including Phi Alpha Tau and Alpha Pi Theta, began to hold their own dances in the following decades.  

By the 1950s, the Student Government Association was holding a Halloween Costume Dance that was open to all students. It was considered to be the first important function of the academic year and “a great deal of fun” (Emersonian, 1956). WERS also began to plan entertaining Halloween-themed programming every October. For example, well-known historian and author Edward Rowe Snow discussed “ghosts, haunted houses, and other subjects related to Halloween” on the talk program Magazine in 1966 (Berkeley Beacon, 11/14/1966).

By the 1970s, College-wide celebrations had transitioned from formal dances to parties. The Student Union held large events to which all Emersonians were invited. Food and drinks were free, the music was loud, and costumes were strongly encouraged. There were also opportunities for party-goers to participate in raffles and costume contests.

Programming expanded in the 1980s to include haunted houses, games, spooky displays, pumpkin-carving contests, and movie screenings. According to the 1985 Emersonian yearbook, “Halloween is THE holiday occasion at Emerson College” (Emersonian, 1985). Students, staff, and faculty also began to participate in Boston-wide events. The Monster Dash was a race held in late October that benefited the United Way. Not only could participants vie to win first place in the race, but also for best costume in multiple categories.

In the 1990s, the trend for multiple Halloween events continued. Alpha Pi Theta held its “Halloween Keg Kicker” every year, and the dormitory communities were lauded for opening up their celebrations to the Boston community. In 1993, for example, the Emerson community held a haunted house and trick-or-treating events for Boston children, as well as a floor decorating contest. WECB took over community-wide Halloween parties, holding a Halloween Bash every year that included dancing, costume contests, raffles, and swag.

The 2000s and 2010s saw the development of new programs, including the Wax on Felt Halloween music show and the Legends Ball. Today, we have many different events for students, faculty, and staff to enjoy. Whether you are attending a party or relaxing on the sofa with a scary movie and bag of your favorite candy this year, have a great Halloween!

Jenn Williams (Archives and Special Collections)